Clear a path

Linda Draper is a New York singer-songwriter with a candid, knowing voice that bobs and soars, dodges and confronts in a natural conversational fashion. For all her frankness, Draper never comes across as brash or cynical. More like the shy girl down the block who usually averts her eyes a little, but every once in a while greets strangers with a broad, unselfconscious smile. Hordes of big-city musicians trudge the muddy new-folk path these days, shiny new acoustic guitars and hippie affectations in tow, and I don't much bother with them. But Linda Draper is worth clearing the way for.

Seven Black Crows - Linda Draper

One Two Three Four - Linda Draper

It's Not All About Love - Linda Draper

From One Two Three Four (Amazon: US, UK and iTunes) and Patchwork (iTunes).